Grind

Definition

Grind generally means to reduce something into smaller particles or powder by crushing it.

Parts of Speech

Verb and Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡraɪnd/
• Respelling: GRYND (with "GRY" as in "cry" and "ND" as in "end")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡraɪnd/
• Respelling: GRYND (with "GRY" as in "cry" and "ND" as in "end")

In both dialects, "grind" places the primary stress on the entire syllable. The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "GRYND."

Etymology

The word "grind" originates from the Old English word "grindan," which means "to rub together" or "to crush into powder". It is akin to the Old Norse "grinda" meaning "to grind."

Derivatives

• Grinder (noun)
• Grinding (noun, verb)
• Ground (verb, past tense and past participle)
• Grindstone (noun)
• Grinded (verb, archaic past tense)

Synonyms

• Crush
• Pulverize
• Mill

Antonyms

• Construct
• Build
• Whole

Usage

"Grind" is commonly used in various contexts, including culinary (grinding spices), mechanical (grinding metal), academic (studying hard), and informal (daily grind or tedious work). The term also appears in dance, referring to a close, rhythmic dance movement.

Related Terms

• Abrasion
• Friction
• Milling
• Granulate
• Comminute

Detailed Definition

Verb

• To Crush into Particles: To break down a substance into smaller pieces or powder by crushing or cutting.
  • Example: He grinds the coffee beans every morning for a fresh brew.

• To Sharpen or Refine: To make sharp or smooth by friction.
  • Example: The metalworker grinds the edge of the blade to sharpen it.

• To Work Hard or Study Intensively: To apply oneself to a task with diligent effort, often in a monotonous or tedious manner.
  • Example: She has been grinding for her exams all week.

Noun

• The Act of Grinding: The process of reducing a substance to small particles by crushing or cutting.
  • Example: The chef used a mortar and pestle for the spice grind.

• Monotonous Work: A repetitive, tiresome task, often associated with hard work or study.
  • Example: The daily grind of commuting and working can be exhausting.

• Dance Move: A close-contact dance involving the movement of the hips, typically performed to music.
  • Example: They were doing the grind on the dance floor.